Cruise Ship Hantavirus Alert: Countries on Watch as Investigators Trace Possible “Patient Zero” to Rat-Infested Landfill Visit

Health authorities in multiple countries are increasing public health monitoring after passengers from the expedition cruise ship MV Hondius were evacuated and sent home following a suspected hantavirus incident onboard.

Travelers began leaving Tenerife on Sunday via military and government-chartered flights, with officials implementing strict infection-control procedures during disembarkation. Crew members were seen escorting passengers while wearing full protective suits and respirators, and many passengers also chose to wear protective equipment as a precaution.

International Evacuation Under Tight Health Protocols

The evacuation involves passengers from more than 20 countries and is expected to take several days. Spanish passengers were reportedly among the first to depart, flying to Madrid, while French travelers were transported to Paris, where medical teams were ready to conduct checks upon arrival.

Authorities say returning passengers will be subject to varying levels of health screening, with some countries preparing quarantine measures and follow-up monitoring over the coming weeks.